Introducing Pop Art: A Soup Can Etched in History, and More

Andy Warhol (Andrew Warhola) made an irreversible mark on the history of art.  Warhol is famous for his innovative use of colors and dimensions resulting in what is modernly known as Pop Art. Since he pioneered the movement he is known as the Prince of Pop Art. Though he started as a commercial illustrator, Warhol is known worldwide for his Pop Art paintings, such as 32 Campbell's Soup Cans pictured below.

Campbell's Soup Cans, 1962

The work was composed of 32 Canvases which each measured 20in x 16 in. They hung on a wall and were supposed to represent how they would be on a shelf in a grocery store (sounds similar to Ginsberg's A Supermarket in California, no?)  Each canvas was made using a printmaking technique. See an individual canvas pictured below.

This exhibit was a hit when exhibited in 1962, but, as one newscaster put it, Warhol's 15 minutes of fame is not over yet. Last month, Campbell's released a 50 year commemoration. Target will be selling cans inspired by Warhol's exhibit:

Target's Collection of 50 year anniversary Campbell's Soup Cans 

Warhol's fame extends far beyond 32 Campbell's Soup Cans. You may recognize, his 1962 portrait of Marilyn Monroe,his 1964 Jackie Kennedy, or his 1965 painting Atomic Bomb. 

Portrait of Marilyn Monroe, 1962

Jackie Kennedy, 1964

Atomic Bomb, 1965

Currently, the Metropolitan Museum of Art has a collection of Warhol's work. His work will be on display from September 18th 2012 - December 31st 2012. The exhibit will juxtapose Warhol's paintings against other painters to demonstrate Warhol's vast influence on the culture of art. The exhibit is made possible by Morgan Stanley. 

Check out Andy Warhol's work for yourself and you'll see his amazing contribution to Pop Art, American Art and art worldwide.